I’ve always been fond of both presidents named Roosevelt because both were men of thought AND action.

Teddy Roosevelt gave a speech at the University of Paris in 1910, after he was President, which became known as the Man in the Arena speech. Though long, there is one paragraph I love because of its message, which is quintessential TR (I included it at the bottom of this article). Essentially, he is saying that the first key to getting anything done is to show up. Regardless of the outcome, you have to acknowledge the person for showing up, for making an effort, for being in the arena. It’s easy to sit on the sidelines and be cynical or judgmental. To accomplish anything, you must start with showing up.